Safe Use of Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers - Highlight on Drugs - Harvard Commentaries

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has demanded improved labeling of common used pain relievers. They want people to easily read the recommended doses, warnings and risks.

Aspirin, acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are generally safe and effective when taken as directed. But these products can cause harm if taken incorrectly or if you have certain medical conditions.

Acetaminophen is the active ingredient in Tylenol and many other non-aspirin-containing pain relievers. Over-the-counter NSAIDs include ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, and many generic versions) and naproxen (Aleve).

No drug is completely safe. Any drug that is effective will also have side effects. Aspirin, acetaminophen and NSAIDs are no exception. Acetaminophen has a very good safety profile, but it can cause liver damage if taken for very long periods of time or taken in larger-than-recommended amounts. Aspirin in low dose has an excellent safety record. But even low doses can cause stomach ulcers and internal bleeding. NSAIDs also have a good safety record but they can cause stomach ulcers or kidney damage if taken for long periods of time or in too large a dose.

Here are some tips to help you use these drugs safely:

Aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS)
If you have a history of aspirin allergy, nasal polyps or aspirin-induced asthma you should stay away from all of these products. Aspirin and NSAIDs can rarely cause stomach ulcers. You are at increased risk if:
- You are over 60 years of age.
- You have a history of stomach ulcers.
- You are taking blood thinners such as Coumadin (also known as warfarin).
- You have other kinds of bleeding problems.
The NSAIDs also can cause kidney damage. Although the damage is usually reversible, it can be permanent in some people. You are at increased risk if:
- You are over 60 years of age.
- You have high blood pressure, heart disease or kidney disease.
- You are taking diuretic drugs.

Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen can cause serious liver damage if not taken correctly. The damage happens when a byproduct of acetaminophen builds up in the body. Taking large doses of acetaminophen either at one time or over days to weeks can cause problems. For most people, a total acetaminophen dose of 3,250 milligrams or less per 24 hours is safe.

Overdoses can happen if you take more than one product that contains acetaminophen. It is important to check the amounts of acetaminophen in each tablet or capsule.

Read the instructions carefully before taking products that contain acetaminophen.

People who regularly drink alcohol are at increased risk of liver damage from acetaminophen.

The labels for products that contain acetaminophen and NSAIDs now give consumers better information about how to take these drugs safely. If you have any concerns about these drugs, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Howard LeWine, M.D., is chief editor of Internet Publishing at Harvard Health Publications. He is recognized as an outstanding clinician and teacher and is a recipient of the Internal Medicine Teacher of the Year award at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Dr. LeWine continues to practice Internal Medicine; most recently he became a hospitalist after practicing primary care for over 20 years.